Measuring heart rate variability, researchers found the smell of lavender produced physiological evidence of relaxation in horses. Water was used as a control and the study was repeated using chamomile essential oil for comparison. Source: EQUUS, October 13, 2022. Link. INSIGHTS: Horses have an acute sense of smell and use it to interpret their world. An accessory … [Read more...]
Managing ammonia risk
Ammonia is second to dust as the leading cause of severe respiratory disease in horses. Although it has a powerful smell, extended exposure causes us to dismiss it. Teri Clark provides an excellent overview of ammonia risks and mitigation methods in this easy-to-share PDF. Horses plus horse caretakers and their families, trainers, instructors, managers, grooms, farm hands, … [Read more...]
Updating the Dog Aging Project
Past posts <Link> provided information about the objectives of the Dog Aging Project. MIT’s Jessica Hamzelou shares how anti-aging drugs are being trialed in companion dogs. The objective is to find ways to have people, as well as their pets, live longer, healthier lives. Researchers hope that any successful attempts at life extension in pet dogs will make human life … [Read more...]
Vaccinating unhealthy animals by Scott Weese, DVM
In part 3 of his series on vaccination, Scott Weese, DVM, addresses the challenges and decisions to vaccinate unhealthy animals or not. Vaccine labels don’t say to NOT use them in unhealthy pets, but they also don’t give any guidance for vaccine use in such animals.” Source: Worms and Germs, October 27, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
QSM Diagnostics and Mella Pet Care integrate platforms for infection testing
Complimentary Commercial Content Mella and QSM Diagnostics have unveiled the addition of the QSM OTTER eQ instrument platform in the Mella Desktop Application. The test improves antibiotic stewardship for veterinarians by increasing the accuracy of identifying bacterial infections. The integration with Mella reduces duplication and allows for the test results to be sent … [Read more...]
Shedding season tips
Contains Commercial Content Most pets experience intensive shedding during fall and spring. Whether a retailer, groomer, pet sitter or veterinarian, shedding season is a good time to reinforce skin care and offer tools and tips to manage the hairy situations to pet owners. Source: Happy Puppy Tips. Link. … [Read more...]
You CAN change from a night owl to an early bird (video)
While you can’t change your genetic predisposition, you don’t have to let it control you. Sleep experts have several techniques to alter your body clock if you’re willing to let them. Success depends on how much you are willing to change behaviors that affect sleep. If your body and brain fail to rev up until later in the day, you’re likely a night owl, naturally programmed to … [Read more...]
GFI #263 – understanding new rules for livestock antibiotics
University of Idaho Extension Educator Carmen Willmore helps animal health pros understand the new rules surrounding livestock antibiotics. By rule, commonly used over-the-counter antimicrobials will require a prescription from a veterinarian as part of a valid VCPR. GFI #263 is slated for final implementation on June 11, 2023. Source: Animal Health International, INSIGHT, … [Read more...]
Bull fitness advice for the off-season
Bulls’ work is done for now, but their soundness and health are important for next breeding season. Experts from Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute share their advice on how to keep bulls healthy and ready for the next breeding season. . . . one of the main reasons bulls are culled is due to feet and leg problems causing lameness.” Source: Drovers, October 21, … [Read more...]
New HPAI cases four new states in backyard flocks
Highly pathogenic avian flu continues to infect poultry flocks. Commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Enhanced biosecurity remains the best line of defense to protect animal health. Source: Successful Farming, October 21, 2022. Link. HPAI symptoms include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and other signs of … [Read more...]
National Cat Day is October 29th
Since 2005, National Cat Day has focused on informing the public about the need to rescue cats. Over time it has also become a celebration of the most popular four-legged pets in America. Consider using some of these resources in communications to support this day of feline recognition. Source: National Today. Link. Also see: Morris Animal Foundation, October 21, 2022. … [Read more...]
Campaign seeks to make November senior pet month
Senior Pet Advocates is recognizing November as Senior Pet Health Month. The group believes it is important to emphasize senior pets require additional care, such as more frequent examinations and diagnostics. Plus, their owners may need nutritional and behavioral counseling. Source: AVMA, October 18, 2022. Link. Senior Pet Advocates plans on growing support for the … [Read more...]
NSAID overdose in dogs: Positive outcomes require the right therapy.
Addressing what to do and the urgencies of treating a NSAID overdose, Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT, says research shows most patients have a positive outcome with appropriate therapy. The upcoming holiday season is a good reason to remind pet owners of the need to keep pet and human drugs out of the reach of pets, including monitoring guest behaviors in our … [Read more...]
Pet vaccination questions addressed by Scott Weese, DVM
Scott Weese, DVM, shares his thoughts on a series of vaccine issues, questions and dogmas surrounding rabies and core pet vaccines. . . . we need to vaccinate <pets> until we’re sure they’re old enough to respond properly to a vaccine.: - Scott Weese, DVM Source: Worms and Germs Blog. Link. Part 1: rabies vaccine timing, October 20, 2022. Link. Part 2: the puppy … [Read more...]
What to know about seasonal depression
Seasonal affective disorder is more than the winter blues. It is a form of clinical depression. Its symptoms last longer and come and go with the seasons. As much as 10 percent of the U.S. population is affected by it. SAD can be managed using evidence-based therapies that include outdoor time, bright light therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressant … [Read more...]
Veterinary First Responder Certificate Program
AVMA’s certificate program serves as a framework to ensure veterinarians and veterinary students have the knowledge and skills to serve as first responders. The requirements include courses from FEMA. Currently, only Texas A&M 4th-year students can complete the VFRCP. However, the available program courses are open to any veterinary student or graduate veterinarian to … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – October 24, 2022
New hire background screening webinar, satellite vet clinics at Walmart, National Cat Day history, tech gadgets enable pet care, Hill’s and Mars initiatives and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, October 24, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
Pet Poison Helpline data drives interactive toxic trends map
Toxin Trends was created to educate pet owners and veterinary professionals on the variety of toxins that are near their communities. Chrysanthemums, 27th on the tableau toxin list, are popular fall flowers across the country. The highest number of calls to the helpline come in October as shown in the interactive map. Source: Pet Poison Helpline, Toxic Trends. … [Read more...]
Melting glaciers may bring the next pandemic
Melting ice may bring the next pandemic, according to recent data. Genetic analysis of soil and lake sediments from Lake Hazen, the largest high Arctic freshwater lake in the world, suggests the risk of a virus infecting a host for the first time may be higher close to melting glaciers. Source: The Guardian, October 18, 2022. Link. For instance, last year, researchers at … [Read more...]
Wildlife doesn’t always obey the rules (video)
Commentary Wild animals are opportunistic eaters and the squirrel* in this video is no exception. Our recent post, Backyard visitors spell RISK for pets, people, preceded a plethora of media stories about encounters with bears, cougars, coyotes, deer, elk, moose and more. Drought, wildfires, seasonal changes and crop harvesting has wild critters moving to find new food … [Read more...]
Global One Health Joint Plan of Action set in motion
The objectives of the OH JPA seek to create a world better able to prevent, predict, detect and respond to health threats and improve the health of humans, animals, plants and the environment while contributing to sustainable development. Six interdependent action tracks form the plan’s pillars. These priorities are to help achieve sustainable health and food systems, reduce … [Read more...]
Tell ‘em again to keep pets safe
Halloween’s frightening images, sounds and sudden movements can scare pets. Despite plenty of media coverage, guidance from veterinary clinics will be appreciated. We’re sharing past posts about Halloween here. Source: Search results for: Halloween, AHD. Link. Also see: 5 tips to keep pets safe this Halloween, Daily Paws, October 6, 2022. Link. “Avoid candy dangers, … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – October 27, 2022
Last week's AHD Bulletin - Animal Health Digest Bulletin, Thursday, October 20, 2022. Link. ====================================== First honeybee vaccine could protect the entire hive, starting with queen Source: Popular Science, October 21, 2022. Link. A study published on October 17 in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science found honeybees born … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – October 20, 2022
Last week’s most read posts – Socializing new puppies? Manage the right amount of playtime. Link. Last AHD Bulletin - Animal Health Digest Bulletin, Thursday, October 13, 2022. Link. 10 commandments of dog ownership Source: AHD, June 28, 2022. Link. Reposting because it is important to routinely reinforce the responsibilities of pet ownership, … [Read more...]
Lame cows are not to be tolerated on dairies
“Acknowledging the importance of hoof health and purposefully reducing lameness incidences may not position farms to maximum performance and profit in the short term, but it is a must-do if a farm is going to achieve a balance of optimal profit, efficiency and welfare by definition of sustainable,” shared Jennifer Walker, DVM, in a recent presentation. At any given time, 25% … [Read more...]
Cool things seen at 2022 World Dairy Expo
Progressive Dairy’s editorial team shares the latest new products and ideas in the dairy industry in this article. Dairy producers participating in an onsite survey indicated labor and input costs were their leading worries. Source: Progressive Dairy, October 12, 2022. Link. New products includes several new advancements that can assist with the essentials of dairy life. … [Read more...]
Working together to keep African swine fever at bay
Commentary We noted instructions for international travelers on the USDA website <Link> including sanitizing or burning clothing and shoes. This warning is important for all animal health pros and is relevant considering the growing U.S. population of feral hogs: Do NOT visit a farm, premises with pigs, livestock market, sale barn, zoo, circus, pet store with … [Read more...]
Frost slows pests for certain
The first frost is welcomed by livestock, livestock producers and farmers alike. While all pests aren’t eliminated, freezing temps slow remaining ones and help move crops to harvest conditions. It is a good time to visit with producers about parasite control measures, fall forage and winter preparations. Source: FEED-LOT via Facebook. Link. INSIGHTS: Many winter … [Read more...]
6 things horses appreciate in riders
Horse Speak® founder Sharon Wilsie says horses value certain qualities in riders just as riders seek preferred qualities in their horses. Riding is supposed to be fun; not only for us, but for the horse as well.” – Sharon Wilsie Source: Horse Network, October 5, 2022. Link. We are now in an era of choosing to ride horses because we want and seek a relationship or partnership … [Read more...]
Quick and easy scratch relief
Simple cases of scratches can escalate into painful, chronic conditions, especially as paddocks and pastures get muddy or crusty with winter freezing and thawing conditions. Scratches is the common term for pastern dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin that develops between the heels and the fetlocks, writes Laurie Bonner. Chemically treated bedding, coarse arena substrate or … [Read more...]